A fatal crash in St. Lucie County has left two women dead after their vehicle entered a canal, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The incident occurred on Orange Avenue in western St. Lucie County, highlighting the dangers present on rural roadways in the region. This tragic event follows a series of fatal crashes under investigation in Port St. Lucie, underscoring ongoing safety concerns in the area.

St. Lucie County Crash: Details from Florida Highway Patrol

The main keyword, St. Lucie County crash, is central to this incident. According to a preliminary report from the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the crash took place in the early hours of September 29, 2025. Troopers stated that a Nissan Sentra was traveling westbound on Orange Avenue when it veered off the roadway to the right.

After leaving the roadway, the vehicle struck a guardrail on the north shoulder. According to FHP, the car then crossed Orange Avenue, collided with a guardrail end, and entered a canal near North Rim Ditch Road. Maintenance workers later observed damage to the guardrail and saw part of the vehicle at the water’s surface, reminiscent of other recent fatal two-vehicle crashes in the region.

Victims Identified in St. Lucie County Crash

The Florida Highway Patrol did not immediately release the names of the victims. However, family members identified the deceased as Destiny Taylor, 21, of St. Lucie County, and Tatiana Licona, 28, of Okeechobee County. Both women were recovered from the submerged vehicle on September 30, 2025.

According to Taylor’s mother, Ann McFate, Destiny Taylor was known for her quirky personality and big heart. McFate described her daughter as someone who enjoyed movies, snacking, and playful activities. “She went to work one day with a Spider-Man mask on,” McFate recalled.

Background of the Victims

Destiny Taylor was born and raised in Vero Beach. She worked at an Olive Garden in Vero Beach, as did Licona. The two women were reportedly in a relatively new relationship. McFate shared that Taylor was athletic in her youth, participating in soccer and basketball, but her health declined after she became ill following a mission trip to Puerto Rico.

Licona, who also worked at Olive Garden, was identified by her family and friends. According to official reports, Licona’s 9-year-old daughter stated that her mother had contacted her via FaceTime after leaving a Vero Beach lounge, indicating they were on Orange Avenue and heading toward Okeechobee County.

Timeline of Events Leading to the Crash

According to the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, Destiny Taylor was last seen at midnight on September 29 at the Speakeasy lounge in Vero Beach. She was accompanied by Licona, and the two left in a Nissan Sentra. The sheriff’s report noted that Taylor and Licona were reportedly intoxicated when they departed the lounge. In a separate but equally tragic incident, a motorcyclist was killed in a Port St. Lucie crash at U.S. 1, highlighting the ongoing risks on local roadways.

McFate reported her daughter missing after being unable to reach her. She last saw Taylor on September 25, 2025, and contacted authorities when friends and family had not heard from her by the evening of September 29.

Discovery and Recovery Efforts

Maintenance workers discovered evidence of the crash on September 30, 2025, after noticing damage to the guardrail and part of the vehicle visible at the canal’s surface. According to FHP, the vehicle was hauled from the canal near North Rim Ditch Road, a rural area in western St. Lucie County.

Officials reported that both Taylor and Licona were deceased at the scene. The crash remains under investigation, and details may be updated as the investigation continues.

Family and Community Remember the Victims

Family members described Destiny Taylor as a vibrant and loving individual. Her mother, Ann McFate, shared memories of Taylor’s playful nature and her close relationship with her family. Taylor’s half-sister, Aliyah Person, 17, recalled that Taylor often brought energy and light to those around her.

McFate noted that Taylor enjoyed spending time at the Speakeasy lounge in Vero Beach, where she played pool with friends. Taylor’s involvement in church and her athletic background were also highlighted by her family.

Ongoing Investigation by Florida Highway Patrol

According to FHP, the investigation into the St. Lucie County crash is ongoing. Troopers have not released further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the vehicle leaving the roadway. Officials urge anyone with information about the incident to contact the Florida Highway Patrol.

As with all fatal crashes, FHP will continue to review evidence and witness statements. Details may be updated as the investigation progresses, according to official sources.

Frequently Asked Questions About St. Lucie County Crash

What caused the St. Lucie County crash on Orange Avenue?

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the vehicle veered off the road, struck a guardrail, and entered a canal. The investigation is ongoing, and no final cause has been released.

Who were the victims in the St. Lucie County crash?

Family members identified Destiny Taylor, 21, of St. Lucie County, and Tatiana Licona, 28, of Okeechobee, as the victims. The Florida Highway Patrol has not officially released their names.

Where did the St. Lucie County crash occur?

The crash happened on Orange Avenue near North Rim Ditch Road in western St. Lucie County. The area is described as largely rural.

Are there updates on the investigation into the St. Lucie County crash?

The Florida Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation. Details may be updated as more information becomes available from official sources.

Can you find official reports about the St. Lucie County crash?

Yes, official information is available from the Florida Highway Patrol and the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office. Updates are provided as the investigation continues.

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